Coordination is refined, including a strong grasp reflex
Baby this week: about 49 cm — head to heel · about 3.1 kg
≈ 49 cm — about the size of a stalk of swiss chard
Illustration enlarged for clarity — the amber marker shows true relative size · head-down, ready position
Your baby this week
- The brain and nervous system continue fine-tuning right up until birth
- Fat continues to accumulate, smoothing out the skin further
- Fingernails may already extend past the fingertips
- This week is still within the 'early term' window, which runs through 38 weeks
Your body this week
- Many people feel a mix of anticipation and impatience as the due date nears
- Losing the mucus plug or noticing increased vaginal discharge can happen in the days or weeks before labor
This week's tip: Review the signs of labor with your provider so you know what to watch for and when to call.
When to get help now
Contact your maternity unit now, even at night, if your baby is moving less than usual or the pattern has changed, you have any vaginal bleeding, fluid leaks from your vagina, you have regular or painful contractions before 37 weeks, or you have a severe headache, vision changes, pain just below the ribs or sudden swelling of the face, hands or feet. Do not wait until the next day.
Sizes and milestones are typical ranges — every pregnancy runs on its own clock. Educational content; your prenatal care team's guidance always comes first.